Human Physiology

Section 1 Introduction - structure and physiological control systems: microscopic examination of cells; microscopic examination of tissues and organs; homeostasis and negative feedback. Section 2 Function and biochemical measurements: measurements of plasma glucose, protein, and cholesterol; thin-layer chromatography of amino acids; electrophoresis of serum proteins; measurements on enzyme activity; genetic control of metabolism; diffusion, osmosis and tonicity. Section 3 The nervous system and sensory physiology: recording the action potential; electroencephalogram; reflex arc; cutaneous receptors; referred apin; eyes and vision; ears and hearing; vestibular apparatus; taste buds. Section 4 The endocrine system: histology of the endocrine glands; thin-layer chromatography of steroid hormones; insulin shock. Section 5 Skeletal muscles: neural control of muscle contraction; summation, tetanus, and fatigue; electromyogramm (EMG). Section 6 Blood - respiratory, immune, and clotting functions: haemoglobin and oxygen transport; total and differential white blood cell counts; blood types; clotting system. Section 7 The cardiovascular system: effects of drugs on the frog heart; electrocardiogram; effects of exercise on the electrocardiogram; mean electrical axis of the ventricles; heart sounds; measurements of blood pressure; cardiovascular system and physical fitness. Section 8 Respiration and metabolism: measurements of pulmonary function; total minute volume and oxygen consumption - effects of exercise; oxyhemoglobin saturation; respiration and acid-base balance. Section 9 Renal function and homeostasis: renal regulation of fluid and electrolyte balance; urea clearance measurements; clinical examination of the urine. Section 10 Digestion and nutrition: histology of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas; digestion of starch by salivary amylase; digestion of egg albumin by pepsin; digestion of fat by pancreatic juice and bile; caloric balance and body weight. Section 11 reproductive system: Ovarian cycle as studied by a vaginal smear of the rat; human chorionic gonadotropin and the pregnancy test; patterns of heredity. Appendices: basic chemistry; sources of equipment and solutions.